Systems and methods for generating, reading and transferring identifiers

ABSTRACT

Systems and methods for generating, reading and transferring identifiers are disclosed. In one embodiment, a handheld system for associating a selected audio content with an object includes an identifier applied to a surface of the object and having a predetermined graphical format that is configured to encode the selected audio content, and a handheld device operable to encode the identifier and further operable to detect an audio content associated with the identifier.

PRIORITY CLAIM

This application claims priority to and incorporates by reference as iffully disclosed herein U.S. Provisional Patent application No.60/678,549 filed May 6, 2005.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to systems and methods for generating,reading and transferring identifiers and, more specifically, forreading, transferring and printing identifiers encoding selected digitalaudio content.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

One-dimensional barcodes utilize a series of lines and spaces to encodeinformation. Although one-dimensional barcodes are useful for storinginformation, one-dimensional barcodes have a limited information storagecapacity.

Two-dimensional barcodes utilize a series of lines and spaces that areoriented with respect to a pair of generally perpendicular axes toencode information. Accordingly, two-dimensional barcodes may be used tostore information in the same manner as one-dimensional barcodes withthe added benefit of an enhanced information storage capability due tothe additional barcode dimension. The added storage capacity oftwo-dimensional barcodes makes them highly suitable for new and creativeuses that extend beyond typical one-dimensional barcode applications.

Audible information such as speech data, or other sounds may be storedin various digital formats. Typically, digital audiotapes, compact disks(CDs), digital videodisks (DVDs), computers, and other similar devicesare operable to store digital representations of sound and voice data.The foregoing storage media are also advantageously configured to storelarge amounts of data. A significant drawback, however, is that theforegoing storage media are not readily integrated into a paper product.

Paper products that include informational content are also widely usedin a number of well-known applications. For example, photo albums,books, greeting cards, cereal boxes, posters, newspapers, fliers,magazines, business memos, faxes, and labels all include information ina graphical form. Consequently, users of the foregoing products mustrely exclusively on their visual sensory system to read and interpretthe graphical forms included on these paper products. Other sensorysystems, such as the human auditory system, are not generally useable ininterpreting the informational content present in such paper products.

Therefore, what is needed are methods and systems for storinginformation on paper products that allow the human auditory system tocomplement the human visual system when interpreting informationpresented paper products.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to systems and methods for generating,reading and transferring identifiers. In one aspect, a handheld systemfor associating a selected audio content with an object includes anidentifier applied to a surface of the object and having a predeterminedgraphical format that is configured to encode the selected audiocontent, and a handheld device operable to encode the identifier andfurther operable to detect an audio content associated with theidentifier.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below withreference to the following drawings.

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a handheld identifier reader system,according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 is an isometric view of a handheld identifier reader system,according to another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 3 is an isometric view of a handheld identifier reader system,according to another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 4 is an isometric view of a handheld identifier reader systemaccording to another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 5 is an isometric view of a handheld identifier reader systemaccording to still another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 6 is an isometric view of a handheld identifier reader systemaccording to another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 7 is an isometric view that will be used to describe a method ofrecording and printing identifiers using a speaking narrator and aspeaking subject, according to still another embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 8 is an isometric view of a reader according to still anotherembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 9A is a depiction of an identifier manufacturing system using thereader of FIG. 8, according to yet another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 9B is a depiction of the identifier manufacturing system of FIG. 9Athat shows still other details of the embodiment;

FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B are front and rear plan views, respectively, of adigital camera apparatus according to another embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 10C is a side elevational view of the camera apparatus of FIG. 10Aand FIG. 10B that are used to describe various operational details ofthe apparatus;

FIG. 10D is a depiction of the digital camera having a non-bar codeimage of the subject;

FIG. 10E is a depiction of the digital camera having an image of the 2Dbarcode from the speaking subject;

FIG. 11 is an isometric view of an image acquisition, presentation andtransfer system according to another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 12 is an isometric view of an image acquisition, presentation andtransfer system according to another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 13A is an isometric view of an image acquisition, presentation andtransfer system 240 according to another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 13B is an isometric view of an image acquisition, presentation andtransfer system according to another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 14 is an isometric view of a speech analysis and voiceidentification system according to another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 15 is a plan view of respective patterns that may form a part ofthe identifier described in the foregoing embodiments;

FIG. 16 is a plan view of a non-pigment-based identifier according to anembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 17 is a plan view of a non-pigment-based identifier according toanother embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 18 is a plan view of a non-pigment-based identifier according to anembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 19 includes respective plan views of a non-pigment-basedidentifiers according to another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 20 includes respective plan views of a non-pigment-basedidentifiers according to another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 21 is a plan view of a non-pigment-based identifier according to anembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 22 is a flowchart that describes a method for associating anidentifier with a surface of an object, according to an embodiment ofthe invention;

FIG. 23 includes respective plan views that show portions of non-pigmentbased identifiers that may be formed onto a surface of an object;

FIG. 24 is a flowchart that describes a method for associating anidentifier with a surface of an object, according to another embodimentof the invention;

FIG. 25 is a flowchart that will be used to describe a method forassociating an identifier with a surface of an object, according toanother embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 26A is a flowchart that is a further expansion of the process soundblock 304 of FIG. 25;

FIG. 26B is a flowchart that further illustrates the preparation ofstamped identifiers by expanding the algorithm contained in block 304 ofFIG. 26A;

FIG. 27 is an expansion of the processes within block 306 of FIGS. 26Aand 26B;

FIG. 28 is an expansion of the algorithms contained within block 314 ofFIGS. 26A and 26B;

FIG. 29 is an expansion of the create list block 314 a of FIG. 28;

FIG. 30 is a further elaboration of the process shown in block 352 ofFIG. 25;

FIG. 31A describes image processing and distortion-correcting methodsthat may be used to decode and reproduce visual images of pigmented andnon-pigmented identifiers;

FIG. 31B is an expansion of the algorithm contained within block 360B ofFIG. 25;

FIG. 32 is an expansion of the block 360-26 from FIG. 31A;

FIG. 34A is an expansion of the algorithm contained within block360-26-24 from FIG. 33;

FIG. 34B is an expansion of the algorithm contained within block 360-26from FIG. 32B;

FIG. 34 is a flowchart that describes a read-and-decode method for thedecryption of identifiers, according to another embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 35 is a flowchart that describes a speech read-and-decode methodfor the decryption of identifiers, according to another embodiment ofthe invention is a method embodiment of a speech read-and-decodealgorithm;

FIG. 36 is a flowchart that illustrates a method of voiceread-and-decode algorithm decoding, decrypting, and identifying a voiceencoded within an identifier, according to an embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 37 is a flowchart that will be used to further describe the block384 of FIGS. 34 35, and 36;

FIG. 38 is a flowchart that will be used to further describe the block384 a of FIG. 37;

FIG. 39 is a flowchart that will be used to describe a voiceidentification method for the system shown in FIG. 14;

FIG. 40A through FIG. 40C illustrate different arrangements ofassociating or affixing identifiers with a printed image, according toan embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 41 is a pictorial view of a scrapbook that will be used to describean application of the disclosed embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 42 is a pictorial view of a museum presentation panel that will beused to describe another application of the disclosed embodiments of thepresent invention;

FIG. 43 is a pictorial view of a public display sign that will be usedto describe still another application of the disclosed embodiments ofthe present invention;

FIG. 44A through FIG. 44D are pictorial views that will be used todescribe still another application of the disclosed embodiments of theinvention;

FIG. 45 are pictorial views that will be used to describe still furtherapplications of the disclosed embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 46 is an illustration of a printed identifier according to anembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 47A and FIG. 47B are pictorial representations of identifiers 20-1and 20-2, respectively, that will be used to describe a method of imageenhancement that may be used to correct a degraded image of anidentifier, according to still another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 48 includes pictorial representations of identifiers that will beused to further describe the enhancement of image-degraded identifiers;

FIG. 49 is a functional block diagram of a handheld reader according toan embodiment of the invention is a functional block diagram of ahandheld identifier reader;

FIG. 50 is a schematic diagram that will be used to describe a method ofrecording audio content and generating identifiers, according to anembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 51 is a table of compressor/decompressor algorithms (CODECs) forencoding audio sound into an identifier.

FIG. 52 is a basic encode algorithm;

FIG. 53 is a basic image capture process algorithm;

FIG. 54 is an operational flow process block diagram;

FIG. 55 is a sound playback algorithm;

FIG. 56A is an alternate identifier embodiment;

FIG. 56B is another identifier embodiment;

FIG. 56C is an alternate identifier embodiment;

FIG. 56D is yet another identifier embodiment;

FIG. 57 schematically illustrates an alternate embodiment of anidentifier generating system from a speaking subject and narrator;

FIG. 58 illustrates another operation of the alternate embodimentdepicted in FIG. 56;

FIG. 59A is a schematic illustration of an alternate embodiment of anidentifier generating system from an original identifier;

FIG. 59B schematically illustrates an alternate location for placing anidentifier illustrated in FIG. 59A;

FIG. 60 is another alternate embodiment of an identifier generatingsystem from an original identifier;

FIG. 61A illustrates the acquisition operation of sound and image of aspeaking subject;

FIG. 61B illustrates a printing operation of the system shown in FIG.61A;

FIG. 61C illustrates another printing operation of the system shown inFIG. 61A; and

FIG. 61D illustrates yet another printing operation of the system shownin FIG. 61A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

The present invention relates generally to systems and methods forreading and printing identifiers and, more specifically, for reading andprinting identifiers that encode alphanumeric information and/or digitalrepresentations of sound. Particular embodiments of the presentinvention are shown in FIGS. 1 through 61D to provide a thoroughunderstanding of such embodiments. One skilled in the art, however, willunderstand that the present invention may have additional embodiments,or that the present invention may be practiced without several of thedetails described in the following description.

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a handheld system 10 that is operable toread and generate identifiers, according to an embodiment of theinvention. The system 10 includes a handheld reader 12 and an identifier20. The identifier 20 may include a one-dimensional (1D) bar code, atwo-dimensional (2D) bar code, or other suitable graphical arrangementsof optically detectable and readable symbols. The identifier 20 containsaudio content, such as voice signals or other sounds that are digitallyencoded on the identifier 20. The reader 12 is configured to read theidentifier 20 by receiving optical information within a sector-shapedviewing wedge 14 that is positioned over or proximate to an image 16.Although the image 16 of FIG. 1 is depicted as a photograph, it isunderstood that the image 16 may include graphical information in otherforms that are positioned on surface portions of various objects such asa newspaper, a magazine or other similar printed articles, a wall of acontainer, a greeting card, a museum display panel, or any other surfaceof an object that a reader may view. The identifier 20 may be positionedalong a border of the image 16. Alternately, the identifier 20 may bepositioned at other locations within the image 16. The identifier 20 maybe applied over or upon the surface of the image 16 or may be integralwith the surface of the image 16. The image 16 that includes theidentifier 20 may be faxed, scanned, imaged, copied and emailed, sincethe identifier 20 and the image 16 are both optically detectable andreadable. Alternatively, the identifier 20 may also be in the form of amagnetic stripe or a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag that arereadable with a wand attachment (not shown) coupled to the reader 12that is configured to sense respective magnetic and radio signals.

The reader 12 may include a built-in speaker 32, a plurality of controlbuttons 36 a, 36 b, and 36 c, and a timer 40. The control buttons 36a-36 c are configured to implement various user commands. The controlbuttons 36 a-36 c thus allow a user of the reader 12 to play and recordauditory informational content, such as music, voice, and environmentalsounds associated with the image 16. For example, control button 36 amay be a record button, control button 36 b may be a play button, andcontrol button 36 c may be a stop button. The control buttons 36 a-36 cmay also be configured to perform other functions. For example, aselected one of the buttons 36 a-36 c may be operable to perform a printfunction that permits the identifier 20 or a representation of theidentifier 20 to be printed on a suitable printer (not shown in FIG. 1).The printer may be configured to print the identifier 20 on any suitablesubstrate material. The control buttons 36 a-36 c shown in FIG. 1 areoperable to initiate a predetermined function by actuating the necessarysoftware and circuitry to perform the designated functions. In otheralternate embodiments, the control buttons 36 a-36 c may be located onanother remote device such as a printer (not shown in FIG. 1) asdescribed in other embodiments, which will be described in greaterdetail below. In a further alternate embodiment, the control buttons 36a-36 c may be omitted, so that the prescribed functions corresponding tothe buttons 26 a-36 c may be voice activated.

Still referring to FIG. 1, the hand held reader 12 includes an opticalimaging device that may include a charge-coupled device (CCD) array, acomplimentary, metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) array, Foveon lightsensors, a laser-based or LED-based scanning device that may be movedacross the identifier 20 to detect the image thereon. The informationencoded in the identifier 20 typically appears in a pixel array withinthe identifier 20, but other digital media forms may be used, thatinclude non-pigmentation-based representations, which may furtherinclude raised bumps on an exposed surface of a semi-rigid medium orpit-like depressions on the exposed surface of the semi-rigid medium,which will be discussed in greater detail below. In another embodiment,the digital media form may present the encoded information in acombination of non-pigmented or pigmented bumps and/or depressions.Magnetic inks or plastic stationary strips of compact diskpits-and-lands may serve as another manifestation of a 2D pixel array ofthe sound-encoded identifier. Yet other digital forms may includemagnetic stripes and RFID tags to encode information associated with theimage 16. When the identifier 20 includes an RFID tag, the reader 12also includes an interrogator that is configured to interrogate theRFID, and a receiver that is operable to receive signals emanating fromthe RFID in response to the interrogation. The receiver may also beconfigured to process signals received from the RFID tag.

The hand held reader 12 also includes a processor (not shown in FIG. 1)that is coupled to the buttons 36 a-36 c, the optical imaging device,the timer 40 and the speaker 32 that is operable to scan apixel-containing image of the encoded identifier 20, and to process thereceived image. The suitably processed digital information may then betranslated into an audible form and transferred to the speaker 32 foraudible reception by a user. The timer 40 is operable to time a playperiod of sound and/or voice playback from the speaker 42. As shown inthis embodiment, the timer 40 may visually indicate the elapsed time forsound recordings or sound playbacks using a visual display positioned onthe hand held reader 12. Alternatively, the timer 40 may visuallyindicate an elapsed time for recording a voice or ambient sound.

FIG. 2 is an isometric view of a handheld reader system 50 that isoperable to read and generate identifiers, according to anotherembodiment of the invention. The system 50 includes a reader 12 a, anidentifier 20, and a printer 46 coupled to the reader 12 a by a conduit44. Many of the details of the reader 12 a and the identifier 20 havebeen previously discussed in detail, and in the interest of brevity,will not be discussed further. The system 50 is configured to receivesound from the environment in which the reader 12 is located, and toconvert the sound to a digital form. The digitally encoded sound may beprinted onto an identifier 20 so that the encoded digital sound and/orvoice information resides in the identifier 20. The identifier 20 maythen be read by the reader 12 a, and an audio signal may be transferredto the speaker 42 for confirmation purposes.

The reader 12 a further includes a microphone 42 that is operable tocapture sound and convert the sound into electrical signals. Themicrophone 42 receives auditory information such as voice or speechinformation, or other sounds from the environment for a time period thatis identified by the timer 40. The voice information or other audiblesound signals are converted from analog signals to digital signals by ananalog-to-digital (A/D) converter located within the processor. Thedigital-encoded sound is routed to the printer 46 through the conduit44, which may include metallic conductors, or alternately, may includefiber-optic elements. In still another particular embodiment, the reader12 a and the printer 46 communicate wirelessly. In either case, theprinter 46 prints the identifier 20 having an optically viewable imageof the digitally encoded sound onto a medium 48. The medium 48 may be apaper-based medium, or it may be polymer-based, and in either case, themedium 48 may also include an adhesive backing. In a particularembodiment, the printer 46 includes the circuitry and software necessaryto perform the image processing functions, such as image encoding anddecoding. The printer 46 may include a laser printer or an ink-jetprinter having a color printing capability, and print on commonlyavailable paper stocks. Alternately, the printer 46 may be configured totransfer a non-pigment based identifier 20 onto a semi-rigid, or even arigid substrate in the form of raised projections or depression-likepits. In a specific embodiment, the printer 46 is configured to etch,abrade or laser imprint the identifier 20 onto the rigid or semi-rigidsubstrate. In yet another particular embodiment of the invention, theprinter 46 creates labels and coded with two-dimensional barcodessuitable for fixing on surfaces of objects or surfaces of images ofobjects. In yet another particular embodiment, the speaker 42 may belocated on the printer 46. The speaker 42, whether located on the reader12 a or printer 46, may be configured to operate as a microphone. Theidentifier 20 may also take the form of a magnetic stripe or an RFIDtag, and the reader 12 a would be suitably equipped with a wand (notshown) configured to sense magnetic or radio signals, respectively.

FIG. 3 is an isometric view of a handheld reader system 70 that isoperable to read and generate identifiers, according to anotherembodiment of the invention. Many of the details of the presentembodiment have been discussed in connection with the foregoingembodiments, and accordingly, will not be described further. The system70 includes a reader 12 b, the identifier 20, and a printer 46 that isoperable to communicate wirelessly with the reader 12 b by means ofwireless signals 45. The reader 12 b includes a transceiver (not shownin FIG. 3) that is operable to radiate the wireless signals 45, and alsoto receive wireless signals 45 from a corresponding transceiver locatedwithin the printer 46. The wireless signals 45 may include radiofrequency (RF) radiation, visible light or infrared radiation.

FIG. 4 is an isometric view of a handheld reader system 80 that isoperable to read and generate identifiers, according to anotherembodiment of the invention. The system 80 includes a reader 12 c thatincorporates a printer 49 located within the reader 12 c. The printer 49is configured to generate an identifier 20 that may be printed on amedium 48 a that is stored within the reader 12 c before printing. Themedium 48 a may be printed on any suitable flexible substrate material,such as a polymeric or a paper-based material. The medium 48 a may alsoinclude an adhesive material applied to a side of the medium 48 a sothat the medium 48 a may be adhesively affixed to a surface.Alternately, the printer 49 may also eject a stamped-out non-pigmentedidentifier 20.

FIG. 5 is an isometric view of a handheld reader system 100 that isoperable to read and generate identifiers, according to still anotherembodiment of the invention. The system 100 includes a lightweight,handheld computer 112 that is operable to perform many of the functionsof the foregoing embodiments of the invention, as will be described indetail below. The handheld computer 112 may be readily incorporated intovarious known and commercially available devices, such as a cellularphone having a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) function that isoperable as a personal organizer, or a PDA or other microprocessorequipped device operable to execute algorithms configured to generateoriginal voice or sound-encoded identifiers or to make replicates oforiginal sound containing identifiers. The handheld computer 112 mayalso be incorporated into a cellular telephone or a cellular telephonehaving an integral digital camera. The handheld computer 112 includes adisplay surface 116 that is configured to communicate visual informationto a user, a speaker 132 configured to communicate audible informationto a user, and a keypad 136 that allows a user to communicate variouscommands to the computer 112. In the present embodiment, the computer112 optically reads the identifier 20 and an image 122 of the identifier20 is displayed on the display surface 116. The computer 112 may beconfigured to present a user with various “prompts” on the displaysurface 116 to engage the user to actuate a selected one of the keys ona keypad 136 in order to initiate a function corresponding to theselected key. For example, a prompt may direct a user to “press play tolisten”, whereupon the user presses a key on the keypad 136 to begin aplay sequence that extracts the audio content from the identifier 20 andto audibly communicate the extracted audio content to a user through thespeaker 132. Alternately, a pen or a stylus device may be used to selectthe prompt shown on the display surface 116, and to initiate the desiredaction. Suitable stylus devices are commonly used with PDA's and othersimilar devices. Alternate embodiments of the handheld computer 112 mayinclude an integral microphone 142. As with the other printerembodiments of the prior devices, the identifier 20 may be of anink-on-media or a variety of modified pitted surface or raisedprojections, i.e., non-pigmented pixel arrays.

FIG. 6 is an isometric view of a handheld barcode reader system 120 thatis operable to read and generate identifiers, according to anotherembodiment of the invention. The system 120 includes the handheldcomputer 112 of FIG. 5, and further includes an integral printer 140that is positioned within the computer 112. The integral printer 140 isoperable to print an identifier 20 on a medium 48, as previouslydescribed. The computer 112 may also be incorporated into variouscommercially available devices, including cellular telephones andcellular telephones that incorporate digital cameras.

Still other embodiments of the computer 112 of FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 arepossible. For example, the computer 112 may be configured to captureimages from a printed identifier 20 and to transfer the data to digitaldevices using an infrared data link, a satellite data link, by means ofthe Internet or by other direct or indirect communication systems.Accordingly, data encoded on the identifier 20 may be emailed or faxedto a corresponding computer 112 by the reader 112. In anotherembodiment, the key pad 136 may be employed to allow commands to beinput by a user that may be used to print, read or play the digitalcontent coded in the identifier 20.

FIG. 7 is an isometric view that will be used to describe a method 170of recording and printing identifiers using a speaking narrator 48 a anda speaking subject 48 b, according to still another embodiment of theinvention. The narrator and subject, in this embodiment, providedifferent speech content to the identifier generator 112. The speakingsubject 48 b is part of the image 16 b, while the narrator 48 a is not apart of the image 16 b. The narrator 48 a speaks into the microphone 142via sound waves 48 a-1 and a narrator identifier 48 a-2 is generated bythe identifier generator 112. The narrator identifier 48 a-2 may containa narrator voice message having, for example, a commentary describingthe significance of events associated with the image 16 b. The subject48 b depicted within the image 16 b also speaks into the speaker 142 viasound waves 48 b-1 of the identifier generator 112 a, and a subjectidentifier 48 b-2 is generated by the identifier generator 112 a. Thesubject identifier 48 b-2 may contain, for example, a subject's voicemessage having content that describes the subject's response to eventsshown in the image 16 b. The narrator identifier 48 a-2 is associated orotherwise affixed to the image 16 b, and the subject identifier 48 b-2is also affixed to the image 16 b, but at a selected portion of theimage 16 b. For example, the subject identifier 48 b-2 may be positionedon the image 16 b at or near a mouth location of the subject shownwithin the image 16 b. Although the narrator identifier 48 a-2 is shownpositioned along an edge of the image 16 b, and the subject identifier48 b-2 is shown positioned on an interior portion of the image 16 b, itis understood that the narrator identifier 48 a-2 and the subjectidentifier 48 b-2 may be located at other positions proximate to theimage 16 b.

FIG. 8 is an isometric view of a reader 112 d, according to stillanother embodiment of the invention. The reader 112 d includes functionbuttons 36 a-c as previously described, and also includes a keypad 144.The key pad 144 permits a password code that may include a PersonalIdentification Number (PIN) or other sequence to be entered into theidentifier generated by the reader 112 d. Accordingly, when a passwordis associated with the identifier, a user is required to enter thepassword before the identifier is read by the reader 112 d. The PIN maybe stored in the identifier itself so that an authorized user can decodethe identifier with a reader, or the PIN may be established to activatea reader to decode identifiers that have not been encrypted with a PINbased password.

FIG. 9A is a depiction of an identifier manufacturing system 140 usingthe reader 112 d of FIG. 8, according to yet another embodiment of theinvention. The system 140 includes a general-purpose computer 146 orother similarly equipped microprocessor devices that also may include adisplay 148. Audio content from a speaking subject 147 is received bythe microphone 42 of the reader 112 d and are processed by the reader112 d and transferred to the general-purpose computer 146 by wirelesssignals 147 a. The general-purpose computer 146 receives the wirelesssignals 147 a and processes the signals using algorithms executable bythe general-purpose computer 146. Accordingly, an image of an identifier147 d is presented on the display 148. Password encryption may beencoded within the signal 147 a using the keypad 144 on the reader 112d. Alternatively, password encryption may also be provided using akeyboard or other entry means associated with the general-purposecomputer 146.

Referring now to FIG. 9B and with continued reference to FIG. 9A, stillother details of the embodiment shown in FIG. 9A will be described. Theidentifier 147 d displayed on the display 148 may be routed to a server148 a that is coupled to a communications system 148 c, such as theInternet, to a mass storage device 148 d that includes a database. Thereader 112 d may also receive software updates through thecommunications system 148 c.

FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B and front and rear plan views, respectively, of adigital camera apparatus 200 according to another embodiment of theinvention. The digital camera apparatus 200 includes various devicesthat are commonly associated with digital recording devices thatcooperatively permit still or moving images to be captured andinternally stored. Optionally, apparatus 200 may be equipped to encode apassword or digital signature into identifier 20. The digital cameraapparatus 200 includes a viewfinder 208, a lens 206, an exposure shutterrelease 210, a shutter control dial 212, as well as other known devicescommonly associated with digital recording devices. The apparatus 200also includes a keypad 204 and a microphone 202. The keypad 204 mayinclude numerals 0-9, or alphabetical letters, or other suitablealphanumeric characters. The keypad 204 may also include variousfunction buttons, such as “C”, which is operable to clear an entry madeon the keypad 204 by a user, and/or “E”, which is operable to enter anentry made on the keypad 204. Referring now in particular to FIG. 10B,the digital camera apparatus 200 further includes a digital display 216that is configured to display images within a field of view of the lens206, and to view images stored within the apparatus 200. The apparatus200 also includes a scrolling wheel 214 that is operable to selectdifferent magnification ranges so that a selected portion of an imagedisplayed on the display 216 may be selectively enlarged or reduced. Animage switch lever 218 is also included that is configured to selectablymove an image of an identifier to a foreground portion of an imagedisplayed on the display 216. The lever 218 may be a rocker switch inwhich an identifier image is brought forward and presented on thedisplay 216. Function buttons 220 a-220 d are also present on theapparatus 200 that are operable to initiate selected functions. Forexample, a button 220 a may correspond to a record function, a button220 b may correspond to a play function while a button 220 c maycorrespond to a stop function. A button 220 d may further correspond toa print function button.

FIG. 10C is a side elevational view of the camera apparatus 200 of FIG.10A and FIG. 10B that will be used to describe various optionaloperational details of the apparatus 200. The apparatus 200 records animage a subject 147 and also captures audible sounds, including speechfrom the subject 147. The camera apparatus 200 includes a communicationspanel 225 that provides various interface locations, which may include avideo output interface (VIDEO) for an analog video signal output, aUniversal Serial Bus (USB) interface that digital video signal output,and a wireless interface (ANT) that is operable to convey wirelessanalog and/or digital signals to a computer, a printer, or othermicroprocessor-based devices. For example, the VIDEO interface may beused to couple analog signals to other devices configured to acceptanalog signals, such as a television set or analog computer monitor. TheUSB interface may be used to couple digital signals to a computer, orother devices that are configured to accept digital signals inaccordance with the USB data exchange protocol, while the ANT interfacemay be used to wirelessly couple the apparatus 200 to a variety ofdigital devices.

Still referring to FIG. 10C, audible sounds emanating from the speakingsubject 147 are received by the microphone 202 and are converted intoanalog signals. The analog signals are converted to digital and storedin an audio digital file within the apparatus 200. Alternately, theaudio digital file may be transferred to other devices that arecommunicatively coupled to the camera apparatus 200 by means of theinterface locations in the communications panel 225.

Referring now also to FIG. 10D and FIG. 10E, an image 221 of the subject147 (FIG. 10C) is shown on the display 216. When the switch 218 isactuated, the image of the identifier 223 is presented on the display216. The identifier 223 preferably includes a digital representation ofthe audible sounds and video content associated with the image 221 ofthe subject 147.

FIG. 11 is an isometric view of an image acquisition, presentation andtransfer system 226 according to another embodiment of the invention.The system 226 includes the camera apparatus 200, as described in detailin connection with FIGS. 10A through 10E. The system 225 also includes acomputer 146 and a printer 234 that are operatively coupled to thecamera apparatus 200, by wireless, or other suitable means. Inoperation, a user 228 touches or otherwise activates a print key 220 dand the apparatus 200 wirelessly transmits the image 221 to the computerdisplay 148 of the computer 146. The computer 146 may, in turn,wirelessly relay the image 221 to a printer 234 so that the image 221may be printed on a suitable print medium 238. Although FIG. 11 depictsthe wireless exchange of signals between the apparatus 200, the computer146 and the printer 234, it is understood that in other particularembodiments of the invention, one or more of the foregoing devices maybe coupled using metallic, fiber optic or other conductors.

FIG. 12 is an isometric view of an image acquisition, presentation andtransfer system 227 according to another embodiment of the invention.The camera apparatus 200 wirelessly communicates with the printer 234 sothat the image 221 shown on the display 216 of the camera apparatus 200is transferred to the printer 234. The transfer of the image 221 isaffected when the user 228 actuates the print key 220 d. When theprinter 234 receives the image 221, the printer 234 reproduces the image221 on a suitable print medium 238.

FIG. 13A is an isometric view of an image acquisition, presentation andtransfer system 240 according to another embodiment of the invention.The system 240 includes a camera apparatus 200 and a printer 46 aconfigured to print an identifier 242. The display 216 of the cameraapparatus 200 displays the identifier 234 that includes voice and audioencoded information. In operation, the print function button 220 d isactuated by the user 228 so that the identifier 234 is wirelesslycommunicated to the printer 46 a so that the identifier 242 is printedby the printer 46 a on a suitable print medium. The identifier 242 isthen ejected by the printer 46 a, and removed from the printer 46 a andassociated or affixed to an image 238 of the subject 238 previouslyprinted from the printer 234 of FIG. 12. In this operation, theidentifier 242 that is generated as an original 2D barcode containing avoice message from the speaking subject 147 is not password coded with aPIN or any other similarly functioning password. For non-password codedoperations, the camera apparatus need not be equipped with a keypad 204.

FIG. 13B is an isometric view of an image acquisition, presentation andtransfer system 244 according to another embodiment of the invention.The camera apparatus 200 is operable to receive a password and toencrypt the password before the password is associated with theidentifier. The encryption scheme may employ either the well-knownprivate (or secret) key encryption, or it may rely upon public keyencryption, thus affording greater security if encryption speed is not aconcern. In a specific embodiment, a public key encryption method iscombined with a private key method in a “digital envelope” to provide anenhanced level of security with greater speed. Accordingly, the user 228may provide the password to the system 224 by entering the password onthe keypad 204 of the camera apparatus 200. The password is thenencrypted and transferred to the identifier 229 that is shown on thedisplay 216 of the camera apparatus 200. A user 228 may then actuate theprint function key 220 d so that the apparatus 200 wirelessly transmitsthe identifier 229 to the printer 46 a, whereupon an identifier 246having an encrypted password is printed and ejected by the printer 46 a.The identifier 246 having the encrypted password may then be affixed orotherwise associated with the image 221 that was previously printed on asuitable print medium 238.

The various embodiments of the foregoing identifier generation systemsas shown in FIGS. 1-13B require the separate application of anindependently generated identifier to be applied to the surface of anobject or to the surface of an image or an object. Other embodimentsadvantageously avoid the separate application of a printed or stampedidentifier to an object or object image. The microprocessor executablealgorithms may be implemented either within the various readers and/orcamera embodiments, or by a microprocessor attached to peripheraldevices, such as the computer 146 or the printer 46. For example, soundfiles that are maintained in a separate database may be merged withimage files from an image database, such that the combined sound andimage file may be printed as an integral image having both the image 16merged with the identifier 20. The microprocessor executable algorithmsadvantageously permit the placement of the identifier about theperimeter of the image 16 in a manner that minimizes the visualobstruction of details within the image 16. Other embodiments wouldinclude the computer 146 or printer 46 having a microphone, so thatseparate sound containing identifiers, are generated separately from theimage 16 obtained by the readers 12, 12 a-d, 112, or camera 200.Alternatively, an independently generated identifier may be digitallycombined with the digital file of the image 16, positioned as desired,then printed as a composite identifier-picture image.

FIG. 14 is an isometric view of a speech analysis and voiceidentification system 250, according to another embodiment of theinvention. The system 250 includes at least one reader 112 d, aspreviously described in connection with the embodiment shown in FIG. 8.Alternately, at least one camera apparatus 200, as described in detailin connection with FIG. 10A through FIG. 10E may also be used instead ofone or both of the readers 112 d. The system 250 also includes acomputer 146, and an identification card 256 that includes an image 238of the subject 147, and an identifier 252. The identifier 252 includesspeech content that has been encoded on the identifier 252.

A preferred operation of the system 250 will now be described. In oneoperational mode, a subject 147 records a speech message on a selectedone of the readers 112 d. The subject 147 generally recites the samemessage that was previously encoded on the identifier 252, althoughother messages may be used. The reader 112 d then transmits a wirelesssignal 147-k to the computer 146. For example, the subject 147 mayrecite the message “I am John Doe Smith, an employee of XYZ, Inc.”, andthe speech content is transferred to the computer 146 for furtherprocessing. The computer 146 includes speech recognition software, andan analytical image 147-j of the encoded message may be generated on thedisplay 148.

In another operational mode, the identifier 252 on the identificationcard 256 is scanned by the reader 112 d, and the audio content encodedon the identifier 252 is wirelessly communicated to the computer 146.The audio content may be processed by the computer 146 and compared tothe record obtained from the subject 147 for the subject 147 in order toverify an identity of the subject 147. Simultaneously or asynchronously,the identification card 256 may be examined to verify that the image 238corresponds to the subject 147.

Still referring to FIG. 14, the reader 112 d may be operated by thesubject 147, or alternately, an approved user may enter a password onthe keypad 144 of the reader 112 d to unlock an encrypted audio contenton the identifier 252. The unlocked audio content from the identifier252 is then sent in a wireless signal 252 a from the reader 112 d to thecomputer 146. The pattern of the identifier-derived audio content ispresented on the display 148 as an image 252 c for comparison. If thespeech processing analysis software indicates high probably match, anidentity of the subject 147 is confirmed.

In other specific embodiments, the system 250 may include a databasewithin the computer 146 having a plurality of stored audio recordsobtained from a plurality of different individuals. Moreover, thedatabase may be remotely located from the computer 146 and accessed bythe computer 146 through a communication system, such as a wide areanetwork (WAN), a local area network (LAN) and the Internet.

FIG. 15 is a plan view of respective patterns that may form a part ofthe identifier described in the foregoing embodiments. The codes includea PDF-417 barcode pattern, a DataMatrix barcode pattern, a Maxicodebarcode pattern, an QR Code barcode pattern, a DataStrip barcodepattern, a DataGlyphs barcode pattern, and an Intacta Code barcodepattern, although other suitable 2D patterns may also be used. Theforegoing identifiers may be pigment-based identifiers that are appliedto rigid and semi-rigid substrates. Alternately, the identifiers mayinclude a pigment-base and/or be applied to a plastic film or to a paperproduct.

FIG. 16 through FIG. 23 are respective plan views that show portions ofnon-pigment based identifiers that may be formed onto a surface of anobject. The non-pigment-based identifiers may be formed by knownstamping, embossing, etching engraving, photolithographic or otherprocesses. FIG. 16 is a plan view of a non-pigment-based identifier 700according to an embodiment of the invention. The identifier 700 includesan array of raised box-like structures 705 that may vary in relativespacing and size.

FIG. 17 is a plan view of a non-pigment-based identifier 710 accordingto another embodiment of the invention. The identifier 710 includes anarray of raised cylinders 715 that may have a different relativespacing, and/or different relative diameters.

FIG. 18 is a plan view of a non-pigment-based identifier 720 accordingto an embodiment of the invention. The identifier 720 includes an arrayof depressions 725 that extend inwardly into a surface. Although theidentifier 720 shown in FIG. 18 is generally rectangular in appearance,it is understood that the depressions 725 may be applied to the surfacein other arrangements. For example, hexagon, L-shaped, and circulararrangements may also be used.

FIG. 19 and FIG. 20 are respective plan views of a non-pigment-basedidentifiers 730 and 740, according to another embodiment of theinvention. The identifier 730 includes generally rectangular-shapedelements 735 that are arranged in a relatively rectangular pattern ofthe elements 735, although other patterns may be used. The identifier740 of FIG. 20 includes generally cylindrically shaped elements 745 thatmay be arranged in a selected rectangular arrangement, or in othersuitable arrangements.

FIG. 21 is a plan view of a non-pigment-based identifier 750 accordingto an embodiment of the invention. The identifier 750 includes generallyrectangular-shaped depressions 755 that extend into a surface of anobject. The elements 755 may be arranged in a selected rectangulararrangement, or in other suitable arrangements.

The foregoing embodiments may utilize the identifier patterns shown inFIG. 15 through FIG. 21 may incorporate Exchangeable Image File format(EXIF) coded information with the encoded sound or voice message bykeypad or voice activated commands. The EXIF information is subsequentlydecoded and separately spoken along with the sound or voice containeridentifier The EXIF related information may be spoken before or afterthe subject-derived or narrator derived speech, or printed separatelyfrom the subject or narrator messages. For example, in a photographicdevice, selected exposure-related information such as f-stop (aperturesetting) and exposure times may be EXIF incorporated into theidentifier, and may also be printed alongside the identifiers inalphanumeric symbols. The EXIF or other alphanumeric encoded informationmay be further encoded with a synthesized voice in a non-subject voicefield of the identifier to distinguish non-subject sourced speech fromsubject-derived speech located in the speaking subject voice field ofthe identifier. The synthesized voices may have robotic, male, female,or other voice characteristics. The identifier patterns may also befurther encoded with the date and a number of times the identifier wascreated, revised and/or reproduced, along with version number and/or aserial number of the created or reproduced identifier in the non-voicepattern fields of the identifier. Particular EXIF embodiments of theforegoing reader and identifier generating systems permit the generationof original identifiers under optimal photographic conditions and togenerate replicates of original sound-containing identifiers under thesame optimal photographic conditions, thereby assuring consistent andcontrolled duplication of original identifiers.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart that describes a method 270 a for associating anidentifier with a surface of an object, according to an embodiment ofthe invention. At block 272, a user acquires an object that is to beidentified. The object may be a book, a menu, a medical record, awarning sign, a museum display board, a greeting card, or a newspaper towhich an identifier is to be associated. At block 300, the user preparesthe audio content and encodes the audio content onto the identifier. Theencoded identifier may include voice or other environmentally recordedsounds that are pertinent to the objects. At block 274, the encodedidentifier is associated with the surface of the object, by affixing theencoded identifier to a surface of the object.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart that describes a method 270 b for associating anidentifier with a surface of an object, according to another embodimentof the invention. At block 272, a user acquires an object that is to beidentified. At block 300 a, a pigment-based identifier is prepared byencoding a desired audio content onto the identifier. Alternately, atblock 300B, a non-pigment based identifier may be prepared by similarlyassociating a desired audio content onto the identifier. In anon-pigment based identifier, stamping, etching or subjecting thesurface of the object alters the surface of the object. At block 274,either the pigment based or non-pigment based identifier are associatedor otherwise preferably affixed to the surface of the object. Theidentifiers may also include magnetic stripes and RFID tags.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart that describes a method 270 c for associating anidentifier with a surface of an object, according to another embodimentof the invention. At block 272 a, an image of the object is acquired. Atblock 272 c, the image is processed. The suitably processed image maythen be applied to a suitable media, as shown in block 270 e. Suitablemedia includes a paper-based product such as copy paper, newsprint,cardboard, plastic, wood, or metal-based surfaces. At block 300 a, apigment-containing identifier is prepared by associating the desiredaudio content with the identifier. At block 300 b, a non-pigmentcontaining identifier may be prepared. Non-pigment containingidentifiers are stamped or otherwise embossed on the surface. At block276, at least one of the pigmented and the non-pigmented identifiers isthen associated with a surface portion of the object.

FIG. 25 is a flowchart that will be used to describe a method 270D forassociating an identifier with a surface of an object, according toanother embodiment of the invention. The method 270D includes expandingthe method block 300 a in the form of either preparing identifiers ormaking visual reproductions of original identifier-containing soundcodes. Visual reproductions of identifiers also apply to reproductionsof non-pigmented identifiers. The method 270-d includes expanding theblock 300 a of FIG. 25 into three sub-algorithms including recordingsound at block 302, processing sound at block 304, and printingidentifiers from at block 316. The sub-algorithms to reproduce eitherpigment-based identifiers or non-pigment based identifiers are shown inblocks 352, 360A or 360B, and 366. At block 352 an image of anidentifier object is acquired. The image of the identifier is processedat block 360A or block 360B. Block 360A includes image processing andreproducing the same pixel shape as presented by the originalidentifier. Block 360B includes image processing and reproducing a pixelshape that differs from the original identifier. The processed image ofthe identifier may be printed from the processed image.

As previously described, the printed identifier may also be a stamped ornon-pigmented copy of an identifier. The printed image of the media atblock 270-e may be combined with one of the printed identifier from theprocess sound at block 316 and the copy of the original identifierobject at block 366. The combination of printed image on the media andeither the original identifier or the duplicate of the identifier isassociated at block 276 with the surface of the media. Associationincludes affixing or otherwise attaching the corresponding identifiersto the surface of the media.

FIG. 26A is a flowchart that is a further expansion of the process soundblock 304 of FIG. 25 to generate an identifier. At block 302, the soundis recorded, and the algorithm within block 304 includes encoding thesound at block 306 and then making a decision whether or not to encryptthe sound at decision diamond 310. If the decision is “no” then theidentifier is printed at block 318. If the answer is “yes” to encryptsound, then an encryption algorithm is applied at block 314. Theencrypted identifier is printed at block 318.

FIG. 26B is a flowchart that further illustrates the preparation ofstamped identifiers by expanding the algorithm contained in block 304 ofFIG. 26A. At block 304, sound is encoded at block 306, and a decision toencrypt sound is made at block 310. One of the non-encrypted sound andthe encrypted sound is stamped or embossed into an identifier at block318.

FIG. 27 is an expansion of the processes within block 306 of FIGS. 26Aand 26B. Algorithm 306 includes deciding which pixel configurationformat is selected for a pigmented identifier or which non-ink patternis selected. The algorithms of block 306 include a series of decisiondiamonds to select a compression/decompression (CODEC) algorithm andwhich CODEC version number is to be selected. Beginning with block 306 aa question is presented, and DataGlyphs, for example, is selected. Ifthe answer is negative, then decision diamond 306 c allows the selectionof Intacta. If the decision is negative, then decision diamond 306 fallows the selection of DataStrip. If the answer is negative, thedecision diamond 306 allows the selection of OR code. Decision diamond306 h allows the selection of Maxicode. If the response is negative,decision diamond 306 j is reached, that permits the selection ofDataMatrix. A decision diamond 306 m permits the selection of PDF-417.If all of the foregoing decisions are negative for printed identifiers,then the decision to select a non-pigmented pattern or a stamped orembossed pattern 306 j decision diamond is reached. If any of thesedecision diamonds have an affirmative answer, then the CODEC versionnumber is selected at block 306 t.

FIG. 28 is an expansion of the algorithms contained within block 314 ofFIGS. 26A and 26B. Once the decision is made in the affirmative atdecision diamond 310 to encrypt sound, the algorithms at block 314 forapplying a friction algorithm begins at block 314 a wherein a creatorenters a list of acceptable readers and personal identification numbers(PINs) into the encryption capable reader. The encryption capable readerincludes the devices previously described. For readers not having akeypad having an entry and a clear function, suitable keystrokes may beentered using a device coupled to the reader, such as a computer 146.Accordingly, the desired commands may be entered. At block 314 d, thecreator speaks the message to be encrypted and printed. Creator meansthe speaking subject 147 as previously illustrated. At a block 314 f,systems as previously illustrated a message is encoded and encrypted.The encryption block 314 completes the encryption, and at block 314 h, alist of subsequent users is written to a field in the database. Thedatabase may be located within a computer in communication with thereader or alternately, the database may be accessible through acommunications system, such as the Internet. In the database, a specialfield is listed for the types of encryption code utilized. At block 314h, the method returns to one of printing an identifier at block 318 andstamping a non-pigmented identifier, as shown at block 319. In oneembodiment, the stamping may be accomplished by having the surfacetopology of the receiving media correspondingly modified to have squareor circular projections, irregularly shaped or regularly shaped, orpitted equivalents into any receiving media.

FIG. 29 is an expansion of the create list block 314 a of FIG. 28. Thealgorithm at block 314 a begins with block 314 a-2 where a unique IDcode is created. Thereafter, a decision is presented to add or removenames of the database at decision diamond 314 a-6. If there is no needto add or remove names from the database, then a name selected isselected from the database at process block 314 a-310. If on the otherhand, there is a reason to add or remove names from the database, thenblock 314 a-8 permits names in the database are either added or removed.Block 314 a-8 proceeds to select one or more names from database processblock 314 a-10. Once a name is selected from the database at a processblock 314 a-14, the creator or subject name is associated with a uniqueID code. Once the code is assigned to a particular speaker or creator ata process block 314 a-18, the creator or subject speaks the message tobe encrypted and the spoken message is printed. After the subject speaksthe message, it is encoded and encrypted at a process block 314 a-22.The algorithm contained in block 314 a is completed at process block 314a-26 wherein the unique ID code is associated to the encoded encryptedmessage in the ID field of the encryption code.

FIG. 30 is a further elaboration of the process shown in block 352 ofFIG. 25. Process block 352 begins with capturing an image of an originalidentifier at a process block 352 a. The captured image is thenanalog-to-digital (A/D) converted at process block 352 c and included ina digital file. At process block 352 e, the pixels of the captureddigital identifier image contained within the digital file is stored inmemory. The process block 352 then proceeds to process block 360.

FIG. 31A through FIG. 33 describe image processing anddistortion-correcting methods that may be used to decode and reproducevisual images of pigmented and non-pigmented identifiers. The pigmentedand non-pigmented identifiers generally include pixel arrays that may berectangular, orthogonal, circular, or oval configured patterns. Theshape of individual pixels may be similarly configured to berectangular, oval, angled lines, L-shaped, or other shapes. Suitableimage filtering methods may include edge detection algorithms, contrastadjustment algorithms, and pixel block estimation algorithms asdescribed in detail in: Kimberly Moravec, A Grayscale Reader for CameraImages of Xerox DataGlyphs, Paul L. Rosin, A. David Marshal (Eds.),698-707, Proceedings of the British Machine Vision Conference 2002, BMVC2002, Cardiff, UK, 2-5(September 2002), which is incorporated herein byreference.

FIG. 31A is an expansion of the algorithm contained within the block360A of FIG. 25. The processes performed in block 360A may be performedin a sequential mode that offers the advantage of performing only thoseprocesses that are needed to optimize the image processing and tocompensate for any identifier image distortion. A single correctingprocess may be used, or a series of processes may be used depending onwhether the image is decodable after applying a single or multipleprocess series. The following processes may be engaged independently andin separate or different sequences as described. By way of example, atblock 360-1, a gamma level adjustment is performed. A query is made ifthe image is decodable at decision diamond 360-3. If the image is notdecodable, then an unsharp algorithm is applied at block 360-7. Atdecision diamond 360-9, if the image is not decodable, then a contrastalgorithm is applied at process block 360-12. At decision diamond360-14, a determination is made to determine if the image is decodable.If it is not decodable, then brightness adjust algorithm may be appliedat block 360-16. At decision diamond 360-18, if the image is notdecodable, then the threshold of the pixels is modified at process block360-22. At decision diamond 360-24, a test for image decodability isperformed if the image is still not decodable. If not decodable,distortion correcting algorithms are applied at a process block 360-26.After applying the distortion correction algorithms, the image ischecked for decodability at decision diamond 360-28. If it is still notdecodable, then a failure to image process is reported at process block360-30 and the original identifier is copied and the processing loopcycles again at decision diamond 360-3.

FIG. 31B is an expansion of the algorithm contained within block 360B ofFIG. 25. Block 360B concerns image processing and reproducing adifferent pixel shape from that as presented by the original barcode.Block 360B has the same process blocks and decision diamonds as forblock 360A, except block 360B lacks the applied distortion correctingalgorithms process block 360-26. Instead, block 360B has an appliedpixel transform algorithm at block 360-27. The applied pixel transformalgorithm block 360 27 describes how the originally shaped pixels fromthe original identifier are transformed into a different shape in thereproduced image of the identifier. The processes performed in block360B, like 360A, may be performed in a sequential mode so that a singlecorrecting process may be used, or a series of processes may be used tocorrect an identifier image depending on whether or not an image isdecodable after applying a single or process series.

FIG. 32 is an expansion of the block 360-26 from FIG. 31A. Thedistortion-correcting algorithms of process block 36-26 is primarily,though not exclusively limited to, correcting rectangular or stackedlinear array pixel patterns. Angled lines, such as used in theslashed-based DataGlyph pixel patterns, unless severely distorted, maynot require the skewing and perspective-correcting algorithms. Processblock 360-26 begins with applying a de-skewing correction process atblock 360-26-1. A test for image decodability is attempted at decisiondiamond 360-26-3. If it is not decodable, then a de-rotation algorithmis applied at process block 360-26-5. A query or test for imagedecodability at decision diamond 360-26-7 is attempted and if it is notdecodable, then a de-barrel algorithm is applied at process block360-26-9. Upon testing for image decodability at decision diamond360-26-12, should the image still not be decodable, then ade-pincushioning algorithm is applied at a process block 360-26-16. Ifthe image is still not decodable at decision diamond 360-26-20, then anapply center mark estimate algorithm is attempted at a process block360-26-24. Upon applying the center mark estimation algorithm, the queryis asked if the image is decodable and if the image is not decodable,then a failure is reported and the barcode is recopied at process block360-26-32. The distortion algorithm is reapplied on the recopied barcodebeginning at decision diamond 360-26-3.

FIG. 33A is an expansion of the algorithm contained within block360-26-24 from FIG. 32. The apply center mark estimation algorithmincludes measuring pixel values in the barcode grid at process block360-26-24 a. Thereafter, a determination to find the maximum value pixelis made at a process block 360-26-24 c. Upon finding the maximum valuepixel, there are two options to pursue depending upon the type ofreference coordination used in the pixel array. If the referencecoordination is based upon Cartesian coordinates, then at process block360-26-24 e, the peripheral pixels are reoriented about the maximumpixel value in a Cartesian coordinate or XY fashion. If, on the otherhand, the pixels are distributed about a circular array, then theperipheral pixels are reorientated in polar coordinates about themaximum value pixel at process block 360-26-24 g. Thereafter dependingupon which coordination system that was used in making the pixel arraysof the identifiers at process block 360-26-24 j, the peripheral pixelsare recreated either in a pigment-based printing process or in astamping based process for non-pigmented pixels within the identifiers.

FIG. 33B is an expansion of the algorithm contained within block 360-27from FIG. 31B. Block 360-27 concerns changing the shape of a pixel fromits original shape in the original identifier to a different shape in areproduced identifier. Block 360-27 begins with block 360-27 a todetermine the pixel shape. Thereafter, at decision diamond 360-27 c, aquery is presented, “Do pixels have curves?” If the answer to thisquestion is no, then process block 360-27 e is reached wherein pixelvalues of non-curved pixels are measured. By pixel values, it is meantthe intensity level of the pixel. At process block 360-27 g, a maximumvalue of non-curve pixel process block is reached. Once the maximumvalue of the non-curve pixel is determined, then at process block 360-27h, a reorientation of peripheral non-curve pixels about the maximumnon-curve pixel along Cartesian coordinance is performed at processblock 360-27 h. Once re-orientation along Cartesian coordinates hasoccurred, then at process block 360-27 t, the rectangular peripheralpixels are recreated from the maximum value pixel. Process block 360-27is exited to decision diamond 360-28 of the prior illustrated methodfigures. Returning to decision diamond 360-27 c, for the query, “Dopixels have curves?” If the answer is “yes” to this query, then processblock 360-27 k is reached wherein the pixel value intensity of curvedpixels is measured. At process block 360-27 m, the maximum value of thecurved pixel is determined. At process block 360-27 n, the maximumcurved pixel is rectangularized or “squared up”. The rectangularizationof the maximum curved pixel is achieved via a mathematical algorithmthat has the effect of taking 90° tangents to the external curvedregions and filling in the intersecting 90° tangents with an intensityvalue equivalent to the maximum curved pixel. After rectangularizationof the maximum curved pixel, at process block 360-27 p, therectangularization of peripheral curved pixels is achieved. Similar tothe enclosing or circumscribing of 90° tangent lines process of 360-27n, a similar fill-like process for the peripheral curved pixels isundertaken, wherein rectangularized and filled in peripheral pixels areformed in process block 360-27 p. Once the maximum curve and peripheralcurve pixels are rectangularized and filled in, the peripheralrectangularized pixels are then reoriented about the maximumrectangularized pixel along Cartesian coordinates in process block360-27 r. The rectangular peripheral pixels are recreated from themaximum value pixel at process block 360-27 t. Then process block 360-27is exited to decision diamond 360-28.

FIG. 34 is a flowchart that describes a read-and-decode method 370 forthe decryption of identifiers, according to another embodiment of theinvention. At block 372, the identifier is read using one of thedisclosed embodiments, as discussed in detail above. At block 376, theidentifier is decoded. At block 380, it is determined whether theidentifier is encrypted. If the identifier is not encrypted, then theaudio content is transferred to a speaker, as shown at block 388. On theother hand, if the identifier is encrypted, then a decryption algorithmis selected and applied to the audio content at a process block 384.

FIG. 35 is a flowchart that describes a speech read-and-decode method370A for the decryption of identifiers, according to another embodimentof the invention. At block 372, the identifier is read. At block 376,the identifier is decoded by a reader, as described in detail above. Atblock 380, it is determined whether the identifier is encrypted. If theidentifier is encrypted the method 370A branches to block 384, and asuitable decryption algorithm is applied. A speech recognition algorithmmay then be applied, as shown at block 392. If the identifier is notencrypted, the method 370A branches to a block 392, and a speechrecognition algorithm is applied, and a printed text of the audiocontent is generated at block 396. Alternately, a voice recognitionalgorithm operable to associate an identity with a voice may also beapplied at block 392. The method 270A may also branch to block 388 ifthe identifier is not decrypted so that the audio content extracted fromthe identifier may be a speaker, as shown at block 388.

FIG. 36 is a flowchart that illustrates a method 370B of voiceread-and-decode algorithm decoding, decrypting, and identifying a voiceencoded within an identifier, according to an embodiment of theinvention. The decoding process 370 b resembles the decoding process 370a, and includes a voice recognition algorithm at block 394.

FIG. 37 is a flowchart that will be used to further describe the block384 of FIGS. 34 35, and 36. Block 384 block 384 a allows an owner of anidentifier to enter a personal identification number (PIN) or apublic/private key combination into a reader. At block 384 d, the readerscans the encrypted message. At block 384 k, the reader retrieves a listof PIN numbers from a PIN field stored in a database and decrypts them.At block 384 h a determination is made as to whether the reader PIN isin the retrieved PIN list. If the reader PIN is not in the PIN list, theaudio content is not reproduced (on a speaker or a printer, for example)and an error is presented, as shown at block 384 m. If, on the otherhand, the reader PIN number is present in the PIN list, the readerdecodes the message and reproduces the message, as shown at block 384 p.

FIG. 38 is a flowchart that will be used to further describe the block384 a of FIG. 37. At block 384 a-2, a document owner or object ownerhaving an identifier affixed to the document or object enters thepersonal identification number (PIN) or public/private key combinationinto the reader. The reader scans the encrypted message at a block 384a-8. At block 384 a-10, the scanner retrieves an identification (ID)number from the ID field and decrypts. At block 384 a-14, the readeraccesses the database and performs a look-up routine to determine if thereader is on a list of allowed readers. At block 384 a-22, it isdetermined if a reader is an allowed reader. If the reader is notallowed, then at the message is not reproduced, as shown at block 384a-24, and an error message is generated. Alternately, if it isdetermined that the reader is not allowed the reader decodes the messageand reproduces it, as shown at block 384 a-26.

FIG. 39 is a flowchart that will be used to describe a voiceidentification method 390 for the system 250 shown in FIG. 14. At block390 a, a reader scans an identification (ID) card, such as theidentification card 256 of FIG. 1. The identification card 256 has anidentifier 252. The scanner 112D (FIG. 1) scans the identifier 252 todecode and decrypt the identifier 252. At block 390 c the subject speaksan identifying message into the reader. At block 390 e, the readerperforms voice ID matching so that the signals 147 k (FIG. 14) derivedfrom the speaking subject 147 are conveyed to the computer 146 (alsoshown in FIG. 14). The voice encoded within the identifier 252 isrelayed as a signal 252-a to the computer 146 and is displayed as avoice pattern signal 252-a on a display of the computer 146. At block390 g, a determination is made whether a positive voice identificationis made. If the voice is not identified, an error message is generatedat block 390 h. If the voice is identified, however, the reader scansthe encrypted message, as shown at block 390 j. At block 390 k, thereader retrieves the ID from the ID field and decrypts the ID. At block390 m, the reader accesses the database and searches a look-up table todetermine whether the reader appears on the list of allowed readers. Atblock 390 n, a determination is made as to whether the reader appears inthe allowed reader list. If the reader is not on the list the message isnot reproduced and an error is generated, as shown at block 390 r.Alternately, if the reader appears on the list, then the reader decodesthe message and reproduces the message, as shown at block 390 p.

FIG. 40A through FIG. 40C illustrate different arrangements ofassociating or affixing identifiers with a printed image, according toan embodiment of the invention. In FIG. 40A, a single identifier isaffixed to an image near the bottom of the image. In FIG. 40B, more thanone identifier is affixed to the image. The identifiers applied to theimage may be of different lengths, and may be positioned at differentlocations on the image. For example, the identifier positioned near thebottom edge of the image may include audio content obtained from anarrator describing the significance of the image. Other identifiers mayinclude a commentary obtained from the person that appears in the image,or other suitable subject-related audio content. In FIG. 40C, more thanone identifier may be affixed at a bottom edge of the image. Theidentifiers include audio content that permits a more detailedexplanation of the image content by a narrator or the subject.

FIG. 41 is a pictorial view of a scrapbook that will be used to describean application of the disclosed embodiments of the present invention.The scrapbook includes a plurality of articles, such as photographs,clippings, or other similar materials having identifiers affixed nearthe bottom of the images or at other selected locations.

FIG. 42 is a pictorial view of a museum presentation panel that will beused to describe another application of the disclosed embodiments of thepresent invention. The museum presentation panel includes one or moreidentifiers that are affixed to the panel that include audio contentthat may be suitably decoded to provide a further description of thesubject matter on the panel.

FIG. 43 is a pictorial view of a public display sign that will be usedto describe still another application of the disclosed embodiments ofthe present invention. The public display sign includes one or moreidentifiers having audio content that may be decoded to provide furtherinformation. For example, an identifier positioned on the “no smoking”sign may include audio content that may be used to direct a person thatdecodes the audio content to an area where smoking is permitted.

FIG. 44A through FIG. 44D are pictorial views that will be used todescribe still another application of the disclosed embodiments of theinvention. In the present application, multiple identifiers are appliedto a manufactured article, such as, for example, a box of candy. In FIG.44A, an identifier, such as a sem@code is generated by a reader, asdescribed in greater detail above. In FIG. 44C, the reader reads thesem@code and the sem@code is applied to a selected candy article. InFIG. 44D the candy article having the sem@code is positioned adjacent toanother piece of candy labeled with a different identifier from FIG.44B.

FIG. 45 are pictorial views that will be used to describe still furtherapplications of the disclosed embodiments of the invention. In thepresent application, an identifier 20 is applied to a notepad book, alabel, a resume, a greeting card, a newspaper, and on a container, suchas a side of a box. A particular embodiment includes the identifier 20having EXIF, pre-defined messages and time and/or date stamps. UnderEXIF, generating replicates of original sound-containing identifiers areconsistently duplicated to maintain the voice and sound fidelity of theoriginal identifier. Other applications are possible, wherein one ormore identifiers are applied to semi-rigid materials, or rigidmaterials, such a metal by stamping, embossing, or by other similarprocesses. For greeting cards, for example, the identifier 20 maycontain pre-recorded messages, such as “Merry Christmas” or “Happy NewYear”.

FIG. 46 is an illustration of a printed identifier 20 according to anembodiment of the invention. The identifier 20 includes an internalregion 20 b having a predetermined pattern of black and white boxes thatform pixels. The arrangement of the pixels or equivalent digital dataunits generally depends on a selected coding algorithm used to encodespeech and sound signals. The arrangement is further generally dependenton a desired degree of redundancy in the identifier. In a particularembodiment, up to 25% to 50% or more digital data units may be repeated.Such redundancy would prevent the loss information in a portion of theidentifier that was damaged or loss. The pixels contained within theidentifier 20 may also be subdivided into different regions that providealphanumeric information and/or sound or a selected combination ofalphanumeric information and sound. Various portions of the pixelswithin the identifier 20 may also provide a password protection using aPIN, public key cryptography, or password-challenge systems. Along aperimeter of the identifier 20, code patterns 20 a and 20 b may providedata information governing the framing and shape of the identifier 20.Patterns 20 c and 20 d may be left and right headers, respectively, andprovide data information regarding image density of the pixels or otherdigital forms contained within the identifier 20. Digital data units mayalternatively be stored in three dimensions. In one specific embodiment,a horizontal axis is less than approximately about six inches in lengthand a vertical axis is less than approximately about one-inch in length,although other suitable dimensions may also be used. In anotherembodiment, the digital data units may be configured to store up to apredetermined amount of speech or audio content. In a specificembodiment, the predetermined amount of speech or audio content isapproximately about eight seconds. Data storage capacity may beincreased by increasing an area of the identifier and/or by providing ahigher pixel density. Digital data units may encode sound data, voicedata, text data, image data, software, or any other data includingencryption data. In one specific embodiment, the digital data unitsencode voice sounds. Therefore, in this embodiment, the digital dataunits are not merely reference data that points to pre-recorded voicesounds stored in a in memory device.

FIG. 47A and FIG. 47B are pictorial representations of identifiers 20-1and 20-2, respectively, that will be used to describe a method of imageenhancement that may be used to correct a degraded image of anidentifier, according to still another embodiment of the invention. FIG.47A shows an identifier 20-1 that is degraded by photographicreproduction, or by other similar processes. The identifier 20-1accordingly exhibits an uneven background in which at least a portion ofthe pixels are not properly discernable due to blurring, or due toimproper focus of a reproducing device. To restore the identifier 20-1so that a suitable resolution and clarity is obtained, the imagecorrection algorithms described in connection with FIG. 31 are appliedto the identifier 20-1. For example, the gamma correction, unsharpfilters, contrast filters and other filters that are described in detailabove may be applied to the identifier 20-1 to obtain the identifier20-2, as shown in FIG. 47B. It is understood that other imageenhancements may be applied to the identifier 20-1 to obtain theidentifier 20-2, including brightness corrections, contrast corrections,and sharpening and threshold corrections. The restored identifier 20-2advantageously produces a high fidelity reproduction of the degradedidentifier 20-1.

FIG. 48 includes pictorial representations of identifiers 20-4, 20-6 and20-8 that will be used to further describe the enhancement ofimage-degraded identifiers. An identifier 20-4 suffers from distortioncaused by warping of a supporting surface or due to improper camerapositioning. The identifier 20-6 is similarly distorted due to a skewingor a rotation. To restore the resolution and clarity of the originalidentifier 20 as shown, for example, in FIG. 46, image processingalgorithms were applied to correct the identifiers 20-4 and 20-6.Specifically, the distortion correction algorithms from process block360-26 of FIG. 31 have been applied. An image-enhanced identifier 20-8results from applying the distortion correction algorithms outlined inFIG. 32. In particular, the identifier 20-8 benefits from of thede-skewing correction algorithm 360-26-1, the de-rotation algorithm360-26-5, the de-barreling algorithm 360-26-9, the de-pincushioningalgorithm 360-26-16, along with contrast enhancement algorithms 360-12and threshold adjustment algorithm 360-22 of FIG. 32.

FIG. 49 is a functional block diagram of a handheld reader 600,according to an embodiment of the invention. The reader 600 includes abutton block 200 that further includes a scan button 36 a, a recordbutton 36 b, a playback button 36 c, and a timer display 40. The timerdisplay 40 may provide an numeric representation of an elapsed timevalue, or it may present the representation of the elapsed time value inthe well-known analog watch dial format. The button block 400 isfunctionally coupled to a memory and processing section 410 that furtherincludes a RAM-based temporary data storage 410 a, a ROM-based programand algorithm storage 410 b, and a microprocessor-based algorithmexecutor 410 c. The memory and processing section 410 is operablycoupled to an audio and image capture conversion section 420 thatperforms analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog conversions.Accordingly, the audio and image capture conversion section 420 includesan A/D converter 420 a, a D/A converter 420 b, and an amplifiercomponent 420 c. The A/D converter 420 a receives analog signals from amicrophone 42 and converts the audio signals to digital signals that aresuitable for further processing by the microprocessor 410 c. The D/Aconverter 420 b receives digital data from the microprocessor 410 c andit converts it to analog form that may be communicated to a speaker. Theamplifier 420 c amplifies the audio analog signals, if required, beforethe audio signals are communicated to a speaker. The memory andprocessing section 410 and the audio image capture/conversion section420 are also operably coupled with an input/output (I/O) section 440.The I/O section 440 may be operably coupled to a printer 440 a, animager 440 b, a microphone 440 c, an earphone jack 440 d, and a speaker440 e. The imager 440 b may also include camera-like devices, forexample CCD, CMOS, Foveon or Foveon X3 direct image sensor devices, orother devices capable of recording an optical image. The printer I/Osubsection component 440 a operably interacts with the printer aspreviously illustrated in FIG. 11 and FIG. 12. Alternately, the printer46 a and other printers as shown in FIGS. 1, 3, 4, 6, 7, 13B, and 14Amay also be used. The I/O subsection microphone 440 c may operablyinteract with the microphones 42 and 142 shown in FIG. 2 through FIG.10, FIG. 10C, and FIG. 14. The imager 440 b may also include a lens andan auto focus unit 440 b-1.

FIG. 50 is a schematic diagram that will be used to describe a method500 of recording audio content and generating identifiers, according toan embodiment of the invention. At block 504, analog audio and//or voicedata is acquired by a microphone. The analog audio and/or voice signalis converted to a digital signal at block 506. Suitable algorithmswithin the microprocessor compress the digital signal and create theidentifier pixel patterns at block 508. At block 510, the resultingpixel pattern is transferred to a printer operable to print theidentifier at block 512. In one specific embodiment, the identifier isprinted automatically as audio and/or voice data enters the microphone.Although block 512 includes a printing operation, it is understood thatif the identifier is non-pigmented, the identifier may be applied to asemi-rigid or rigid substrate by stamping or embossing the identifier onthe surface.

Alternately, at block 550, a user may indicate that an identifier is tobe scanned by actuating a scan button. At block 552, the resulting scanimage is sent to a microprocessor for processing. At block 554, theimage data is converted to an analog signal by a digital to analog (D/A)converter. At block 556, the resulting analog data is sent to anamplifier to generate an analog signal having a sufficient power levelto drive a loudspeaker. At block 558, the resulting amplified analogsignal is transferred to a loudspeaker.

FIG. 51 is a table of compressor/decompressor algorithms (CODECs) forencoding audio sound into an identifier. The selected CODEC generallydepends upon the amount of information contained within a givenidentifier and the desired level of audio quality to be recorded withinthe identifier. The audio quality level generally depends upon aselected CODEC since different bit rate responses are present indifferent CODECs to accommodate different recording requirements.Different CODECs may also exhibit different time delays even though agiven CODEC offers a variable bit rate (VBR) to accommodate differentaudio environments. The different CODECs may also include packet lossconcealment (PLC) that removes silent periods that may occur when thereis a loss of data within the identifier or when the identifier is read.As shown in detail in FIG. 52, the CODECs may include Speex, iLBC,AMR-NB, AMR-WB, G.729, GSM-FR, GSM-EFR, G.723.1, G.728, and G.722,although other suitable alternatives may also be used.

FIG. 52 is a basic encode algorithm. The basic encode algorithm 600 ofFIG. 52 begins with capturing sound from a microphone at block 602. Thesound that is captured is converted to digital form at block 604. Thedigital form is encoded using an audio CODEC at block 606. At block 608,the encoded sound bits are converted into an identifier bitmap.Following process block 608, a decision diamond 610 is reached that hasa query “barcode printing on label or on photo?” If the answer is tothis query is “yes” then at block 612, the bitmap is sent to theprinter. This affirmative branch from the decision diamond 610 thenconcludes with process block 614 wherein the printer prints the image ofthe identifier on a label. If on the other hand, the decision to thequery posed in decision diamond 610 is “no” then the negative branchfrom decision diamond 610 begins with the user selecting a photo atblock 620. Once the photo is selected, the user selects an area of thephoto to superimpose the identifier upon. Thereafter, at block 626, thephoto and the identifier are merged. The merged image is then sent to animage printer at block 630. Thereafter, the negative branch from thedecision diamond 610 concludes with the printer printing the photo andthe identifier together at block 632.

FIG. 53 is a basic image capture process algorithm 650. The imagecapture process algorithm 650 begins with an image captured by a sensorat block 652. Once the image is captured by the sensor, bits from thesensor are directed into memory and stored as a bitmap file at block654. After block 654, image processing algorithms commence at block 656where the identifier within the bitmap is identified using a featurerecognition algorithm. Once the identifier is identified, the image iscropped at block 658 to remove any extraneous content. Once the barcodeis suitably cropped at block 660, a perspective correction algorithm isapplied to ensure that the identifier is suitably rectangularized. Oncethe identifier is suitably rectangularized at decision diamond 662, atask is presented to determine if the barrel correction or othergeometric correction is needed. If a barrel correction or otherdistortion algorithms is required for correction, then at block 664,barrel correction or other geometric correction algorithms are engagedto correct for this distortion. After correction of distortion atprocess block 664, a task decision is reached in decision diamond 668with the task to determine if brightness needs adjustment. If the answerto this task decision is “yes”, then at process block 670, a brightnessprocess is performed. At decision diamond 672, if the contrast needsadjustment, then at process block 674, a contrast correcting algorithmis performed. The next task decision query is reached to determine ifsharpness needs adjusting at decision diamond 678. If sharpnessadjustments is required, then at process block 680 a sharpnesscorrection algorithm is applied using an unsharp filter or comparablealgorithm. Thereafter, at decision diamond 682, a determination is madeto determine whether or not an image gradient filter needs to beapplied. If an image gradient filter needs to be applied, then at block684 an unsharp filter or comparable algorithm is used. Thereafter,another task query is presented at decision diamond 686 to determine ifother image enhancements are required. If the answer to this query is“yes” then at process block 688, the necessary enhancements areperformed. The basic image capture process algorithm then continues atprocess block 690 to determine the appropriate threshold level andfollowed by process block 692 to perform the threshold operation at theappropriate threshold level. After process block 692, the imageprocessing algorithms are completed and attempts are made at processblock 694 to determine whether or not the identifier has beensuccessfully decoded. If there has been a successful decoding of theidentifier, then at process block 696, the sound played back processalgorithm is initiated. If the answer to this query is “no” then failureis so indicated at block 698.

FIG. 54 is an operational flow process block diagram 700. At block 702,two-parallel cycle paths are engaged. At process block 704, a userpoints the scanner at the identifier followed by block 706 where a useractivates the scan/play button. Upon activating the scan/play button atprocess block 708, the scanner activates and captures the image. Oncethe image is captured at process block 710, the basic image captureprocess algorithms are engaged as described in the preceding FIG. 53.Once the basic image capture process algorithms are engaged at processblock 710, the sound playback process is engaged at process block 712.Thereafter, a decision diamond 714 is reached where a task is presentedto a user for pressing the replay button. If the replay button ispressed under the “yes” exit point, then at process block 716, themessage is played again. If on the other hand, the user does not pressthe playback button, then at the negative or “no” exit, the cycle beginsagain at start block 702. Another wing from the start block 702 beginswith block 718 where the user presses the record button. Upon pressingthe record button at block 720, the microphone is activated. Thereafterat block 722, the timer is started in which at block 724, the timer maybe implemented in 1 second decrements, or other decremented values and aquery is then presented in decision diamond 726 whether or not to useother larger decrements. If the answer to the query is negative, thenthe 1 second decrement of process block 724 is retained. If the decisionis in the affirmative, then the larger time decrements are used, thenblock 728 is reached wherein the timer is stopped. Once the timer isstopped, then the basic encoding algorithms 650 are used as previouslydescribed. After using the basic encoding algorithms as outlined inprocess 650, a task query is presented in decision diamond 732 where theuser determines whether or not to press the replay button. If thedecision diamond is “yes” to press the replay button, then at block 734,the message is played again and the cycle repeats back to the startblock 702. If the decision is not to press the replay, then the messageis not played again and the process restarts at start block 702.

FIG. 55 is an expansion of the sound playback algorithm 712. The soundplayback algorithm 712 includes and begins with process block 712-2where the identifier decoder extracts bit fields from the identifier.Once the bit fields are extracted, then at block 712-4, audio bits aresent to the audio CODEC. Once the audio bits have been received by theaudio CODEC, then at block 712-6, the audio CODEC converts the bits toraw amplitude data. The raw amplitude data is then sent for analogdigital conversion at process block 712-8. At process block 712-10, theADC conversion is a reversal of an analog to digital in that the digitalis converted to an analog signal. Thereafter, at process block 712-14,the analog signal is sent to an amplifier so that it may be amplified toa level that is discernable by a listener. At process block 712-16, theamplifier sends audio signals to speakers or headphones. Then the soundplayback algorithm is completed at terminus 712-20 where the message isplayed and a listener hears the message either on speakers orheadphones.

FIG. 56A is an alternate identifier embodiment. Identifier 800A is a twosection identifier having a 2D barcode pixel section 802 and analphanumeric section 804. The pixel section 802 includes a bottom border802 a, a top border 802 b, and side borders 802 c and 802 d. The pixelsection 802 comprises substantially rectangular shaped pixels thatcontain encoded information, including encoded sounds and/or speech. Theencoded information may be configured to have encoded speech and/orsound recordings from multiple sources. For example, a speaking subjectand a speaking narrator may be suitably encoded on the identifier 800A.Adjacent to the pixel section 802 is the alphanumeric section 804 thatincludes a translation of the speech content of the voice or voicesencoded in the pixel section 802. The identifier readers and generatorsof the previous systems may be configured to have respectivespeech-to-text and text-to-speech capabilities to perform respectivegeneration and reading operations. The alphanumeric section 804 includesa text message that may include any desired text message. For example,the section 804 of FIG. 56A includes the text message: “Here I am at mygraduation party.” The alphanumeric section 804 is shown positionedbelow the pixel section 802, it may be placed on the top or on eitherside of the pixel section 802.

FIG. 56B is another identifier embodiment. Identifier 800B is comprisedof a two section identifier having a 2D barcode pixel section 812 and analphanumeric section 824 that is suitably shaped. The pixel section 812has a circular configuration and includes concentric solid and dashedrings. The pixel section 812 contains encoded sound and/or speech andmay be configured to have encoded speech and sound recordings frommultiple sources, for example, a speaking subject and a speakingnarrator (such as a cameraman). Adjacent to the pixel section 812 is thealphanumeric section 824 that has a text translation of the speechcontent of the voice or voices encoded in the pixel section 802. Theidentifier readers and generators of the previous systems may beconfigured to have respective speech-to-text and text-to-speechcapabilities as needed to perform respective generation and readingoperations of the circularly configured pixel section 802. Thealphanumeric section 824 may include any desired text information. Forexample, the section 824 of FIG. 56B includes the message: “Here we arein Saco, Me.” Other shapes are possible for the alphanumeric section 824including an oval or circular or semi-circular shaped alphanumericsection 824 that is coaxially disposed around the pixel section 812.

FIG. 56C is an alternate identifier embodiment. Identifier 800C is amulti-section identifier having a suitably shaped 2D barcode pixelsection 802 that is bounded by adjacent alphanumeric sections 804 a and804 b. By example, the printed text message in the section 804 a has amessage translated from the subject-encoded portions of the pixelsection 802 that reads “My parents took me to Saco, Me.”. Similarly, theprinted text message in the section 804 b has a message translated fromthe narrator-encoded portions of the pixel section 802 that reads, “Thegraduation ceremonies were held in Saco High School”.

FIG. 56D is yet another identifier embodiment. Identifier 800D is amulti-section identifier having a generally circular shaped 2D barcodepixel section 822 that is bounded by alphanumeric sections 806 a and 806b and alphanumeric sections 808 a and 808 b. As illustrated, thealphanumeric sections 806 a-b and 808 a-b are rectangular shaped,although they may be circular, elliptical, or semi-circular andcoaxially disposed about the pixel section 822. Any desired textmessaging may be included in the section 806 a-b and 8-8 a-b. Byexample, the printed text message in lower section 806 a has a messagetranslated from encoded portions of the pixel section 822 that reads,“The rain has finally stopped in Saco. Reminds me of Seattle, exceptthat the rain never stops in Seattle”. Similarly, the printed textmessage in the section 806 b has a message that reads, “Here we are onthe coast”. The sections 808 a and 808 b respectively have printedmessages that read “See the lobsters?” and “Look at that fog bank!” Themessages in the sections 808 a-b may be disposed in any desiredorientation.

FIG. 57 schematically illustrates an alternate embodiment of anidentifier generating system 850 from a speaking subject and narrator.The generating system 850 includes a reader 112 d-2 and a wirelessprinter 46 a. The reader 112 d-2 is a modification of the reader 112 din that reader 112 d-2 further has microprocessors that executealgorithms to encode the speech into the pixel section of the identifier852 and to perform speech-to-text translation that may be printed in analphanumeric section of the identifier 852. The subject of image 16 bspeaks and the subject's voice is processed by the reader 112 d-2 toencode the subject's speech into the pixel section of the identifier 852and to perform the speech-to-text translation for the alphanumericsection of identifier 852. Information pertinent to the subject'sidentifier 852 is relayed to the printer 46 a through a wireless signal851. Information pertinent to the narrator's identifier 854 may also beconveyed to the printer 46 a. The printer 46 a prints the multi-sectionidentifiers 852 and 854 for separate application to the image 16 b.Alternatively, the printer 46 a may have microprocessors that executealgorithms to encode the speech into the pixel section of the identifier852 and to perform speech-to-text translation that may be printed in thealphanumeric section of the identifier 852.

FIG. 58 schematically illustrates another alternate embodiment of thesystem 850 of FIG. 56. The generating system 850 includes the reader 112d-2 that conveys information pertinent to the subject's identifier 856and narrator's identifier 858 by a wireless signal 851. The printer 46 aprints the subject and narrator's text translation with the alphanumericsections of the respective identifiers 856 and 858. The printedtranslations for subject and narrator identifiers 856 and 858 may beseparately applied to the image 16 b.

FIG. 59A is a schematic view of an alternate embodiment of an identifiergenerating system 880 from an original identifier. In the system 880, acombination reader/printer 112 a-2 is employed. The reader/printer 112a-2 further includes suitable microprocessors that execute algorithms toreproduce identifiers that are duplicates that are replications of thepixel and alphanumeric sections, and the alphanumeric sections, or thepixel sections of a 2D identifier or barcode. As shown in FIG. 59, thesubject identifier 852 that is affixed to the image 16 b is scanned bythe reader/printer 112 a-2 and presents an identifier image 882 on thedisplay 116. Through entries on the keypad 136, three identifierreplicates, 882 a-c of the original barcode 852 are generated by thereader/printer 112 a-2. Identifier replicate 882 a is a duplicate of theoriginal identifier 852 in that the pixel and alphanumeric sections areprinted. Identifier replicate 882 b is a duplicate of the alphanumericsection in which a printed message “Here I am at my graduation party” ofthe original subject identifier 852 is duplicated. Identifier replicate882 f is a duplicate of the pixel section of the original identifier852.

FIG. 59B schematically illustrates an alternate location for placing anidentifier illustrated in FIG. 59A. The narrator identifier 854,reproduced similarly as the subject identifier or 2D barcode 852 fromthe original on the surface of image 16 b, is placed on the backside 16b-1 of the sheet having the image 16B. The narrator identifier 854includes the pixel section 802 and the alphanumeric section 804. In alike generic manner, the pixel section 802 or the alphanumeric section804 may be applied or affixed to the backside 16 b-1.

FIG. 60 is a schematic view of another alternate embodiment of anidentifier generating system 880A from an original identifier. In thesystem 880A, a combination reader/printer 112 a-4 is employed. Thereader/printer 112 a-4 further includes suitable microprocessors thatexecute algorithms to reproduce identifier pixel sections that areduplicates. The duplicates may be replications of the pixel sections orthey may be translations of the pixel sections that include an originalalphanumeric section, or a duplicate of the pixel section with anoriginal alphanumeric section translation. The reader/printer 112 a-4reads and interprets the pixel portion of an identifier 20, translatesthe encoded speech contained within the original printed pixel array 20,and presents it as an image 884 having a pixel and text sections on thedisplay 116. Through entries on the keypad 136, the identifierreplicates, 884 a-c of the original barcode 20 are generated by thereader/printer 112 a-4. Identifier replicate 884 a is a duplicate of theoriginal identifier 20 with an original text translation printed in analphanumeric section. The identifier replicate 884 b is an originaltranslation of the pixel identifier 20 message “Birthday Time!” Theidentifier replicate 884 f is a duplicate of the original pixelidentifier 20.

FIGS. 61A-D are schematic illustrations that will be used to describethe operation of another embodiment of the present invention. The system900 of FIG. 61A-D includes a camera 200A and a printer 234 in wirelesscommunication with the camera 200A. The printer 234 may also be suitablycoupled to the camera 200A using metallic conductors or fiber opticalconductors if desired.

FIG. 61A illustrates the acquisition of a sound and an image of aspeaking subject. The camera 200A includes suitable microprocessors thatexecute algorithms to process images and sound 147 a acquired from thespeaking subject 147 to generate a fused image 902. The fused image 902may be viewed on the camera display 216, and includes an identifiercomponent 912 merged with a subject image component 918. The identifiercomponent 912 includes a multi-section identifier similar to theidentifier 800A of FIG. 56A in that it has a pixel section 912 a and atranslated alphanumeric section 912 b. The identifier component 912 ofthe fused image 902 may also include various details, as shown in FIGS.56B-D. The identifier component 912 of the fused image 902 will begenerated with the subject image component 918 so that a merged, printedimage results. The identifier component 912 b is an alphanumeric sectionwith a displayed text that reads, “John Doe Smith, Employee No. 1783.”

FIG. 61B illustrates a printing operation of the system 900. An operator228 presses the print key 220 d so that the camera 200A sendsinformation related to the fused image 902 to the printer 46 a throughwireless signals 902 a. The printer 234 receives the signal 902 a andthe fused image 902 is printed on a paper 908. The identifier 912 isalso printed as identifier 912 a with the image 918 so that the image918 a results. The printed identifier 912 a includes the pixel section912 a-2 and the alphanumeric section 912 a-4. The alphanumeric section912 a-4 has the printed text message “John Doe Smith, Employee No.1783”, for example.

FIG. 61C illustrates another printing operation of the system 900. Thetoggle switch 214 is operably configured to allow presentation of eitherboth sections of the identifier 912, the pixel section 912 a, or thealphanumeric section 912 b on the camera display 216. In this case thetoggle switch 214 is operated so that a fused image 904 is obtained thatincludes the alphanumeric section 912 b with the subject image component918. An operator 228 presses the print key 220 d and causes the camera200A to send information related to the fused image 904 to the printer46 a by a wireless signal 904 a. The printer 234 receives the signal 904a and the fused image 904 is printed on paper 908. The imagealphanumeric section 912 b is also generated as printed identifier 912b-4 with image 918 being printed as image 918 a. The alphanumericsection 912 b-4 has the printed text message “John Doe Smith, EmployeeNo. 1783”, for example.

FIG. 61D illustrates yet another printing operation of the system 900.In this operation the toggle switch 214 is operated so that a fusedimage 906 is obtained that includes the pixel section 912 a with thesubject image component 918. An operator 228 presses the print key 220 dthat causes the camera 200A to send information related to the fusedimage 906 to the printer 46 a through a wireless signal 906 a. Theprinter 234 receives the signal 906 a so that the fused image 906 isprinted on paper 908. The image pixel section 912 a is also printed asprinted identifier 912 a-4 with image 918 being printed as image 918 a.

While embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated anddescribed, it is understood that changes may be made without departingfrom the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, vendors whoprint images from customer-supplied digital media may be equipped withmicrophone-equipped readers that record a customer's voice and generatesa sound-encoded or voice-encoded identifier to accompany the digitalimage files presented by the customer. Accordingly, the scope of theinvention is not limited by the disclosure of the preferred embodiments.Instead, the invention is to be determined entirely by reference to theclaims that follow.

1. A handheld system for associating a selected audio content with anobject, comprising: an identifier that may be applied to a surface ofthe object and having a predetermined graphical format that isconfigured to encode the selected audio content; and a handheld deviceoperable to encode the identifier and further operable to detect anaudio content associated with the identifier.
 2. The system of claim 1,wherein the identifier further comprises one of a one-dimensional barcode and a two-dimensional bar code.
 3. The system of claim 1, whereinthe graphical content of the identifier is printed on a suitablesubstrate material that may be fixably applied to the surface.
 4. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein the graphical content of the identifier isapplied directly to the surface of the object.
 5. The system of claim 4,wherein the graphical content of the identifier is applied to thesurface of the object using one of a stamping, an embossing, an etching,an engraving, and a photolithographic process.
 6. The system of claim 1,further comprising a printer operably coupled to the handheld devicethat is configured to reproduce the identifier on a selected medium. 7.The system of claim 1, further comprising a personal computer operablycoupled to the handheld device that is configured to store and displaythe identifier.
 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the handheld device isincorporated into one of a personal digital assistant (PDA), a cellulartelephone unit, a digital camera device and a personal computer.
 9. Thesystem of claim 7, further comprising a database, wherein the personalcomputer is operably coupled to the database through a communicationssystem.
 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the identifier is includes apixel section and an alphanumeric section.
 11. A method of creatingidentifiers configured to encode selected audio content using a handhelddevice, comprising: capturing analog audio signals with the handhelddevice; converting the captured analog audio signals to digital audiosignals using the handheld device; and producing an identifier thatencodes the digital audio signals.
 12. The method of claim 11, furthercomprising applying the identifier on a selected surface of an object.13. The method of claim 11, wherein producing an identifier furthercomprises generating one of a pigment-based identifier and anon-pigmented identifier.
 14. The method of claim 11, wherein convertingthe captured analog audio signals to digital audio signals furthercomprises applying an encryption algorithm to the captured audiosignals.
 15. The method of claim 11, wherein producing an identifierthat encodes the digital audio signals further comprises applying aencoder/decoder (CODEC) algorithm to the digital signals.
 16. The methodof claim 11, wherein producing an identifier that encodes the digitalaudio signals further comprises applying the identifier to an object.17. The method of claim 16, wherein applying the identifier to an objectfurther comprises applying the identifier to a selected portion of aphotograph, a display panel, a sign, and a printed publication.
 18. Amethod of verifying an identity of an individual, comprising: producingan identifier that encodes a first selected audio content received fromthe individual; applying the identifier having the encoded firstselected audio content to an identification article assigned to theindividual; acquiring a second selected audio content from theindividual; and comparing the first selected audio content to the secondselected audio content to verify the identity of the individual.
 19. Themethod of claim 18, wherein producing the identifier further comprisesproviding the first selected audio content to a handheld device operableto encode the identifier.
 20. The method of claim 18, wherein applyingthe identifier further comprises reading the identifier with a handhelddevice.
 21. The method of claim 18, wherein acquiring a second selectedaudio content from the individual further comprises providing the secondselected audio content to a handheld device operable to encode theidentifier.
 22. The method of claim 18, wherein comparing the firstselected audio content to the second selected audio content furthercomprises transferring the first selected audio content and the secondselected audio content to a voice recognition device operable to makethe comparison.
 23. The method of claim 21, wherein the transferring thefirst selected audio content and the second selected audio content to avoice recognition device further comprises communicating the firstselected audio content and the second selected audio content to acomputer having voice recognition software.
 24. A handheld system forassociating a selected audio content with an object, comprising: anidentifier applied to a surface of the object and having a graphicalportion having a predetermined graphical format that is configured toencode the selected audio content and an alphanumeric translation of theaudio content; and a handheld device operable to encode the identifierand further operable to detect an audio content associated with theidentifier.
 25. The system of claim 24, wherein the alphanumerictranslation further includes alphanumeric translations from multipleaudio sources recorded in the graphical portion.
 26. The system of claim25, wherein the alphanumeric translations from multiple audio sourcesare positioned adjacent to the graphical portion.
 27. The system ofclaim 25, wherein the alphanumeric translations from multiple sources ispositioned about a periphery of the graphical portion.
 28. The system ofclaim 24, wherein the predetermined graphical format includes pixelpatterns.
 29. The system of claim 28, wherein the pixel patterns includeat least one of a rectangular pixel array and a curvilinear pixel array.30. The system of claim 29, wherein the alphanumeric translationscoaxially circumscribe the curvilinear pixel arrays.
 31. The system ofclaim 29, wherein the alphanumeric translations coaxially inscribe thecurvilinear pixel arrays.
 32. A handheld system for associating aselected audio content with an object, comprising: an identifier appliedto a surface of the object and having a graphical portion having apredetermined graphical format that is configured to encode the selectedaudio content and an alphanumeric translation of the audio content; anda handheld device operable to duplicate the identifier and furtheroperable to detect an audio content associated with the identifier. 33.The system of claim 32, wherein the handheld device is configured toduplicate the graphical portion and create an alphanumeric translationof the duplicated graphical portion.
 34. The system of claim 33, whereinthe alphanumeric translation is positioned adjacent to the duplicatedgraphical portion.
 35. The system of claim 32, wherein the originaltranslation includes a plurality of text messages.
 36. The system ofclaim 35, wherein the plurality of text messages are positioned adjacentto the duplicated graphical portion.
 37. The system of claim 35, whereinthe plurality of text messages circumscribe the duplicated graphicalportion.